New Year’s Eve festivities have started for some in the Hunter while major celebrations in Newcastle, Maitland, Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie will begin late this afternoon.
Newcastle Foreshore will host four hours of family-friendly entertainment on the edge of the harbour from 5pm before a fireworks display at 9pm.
The display, which will have more “high velocity” fireworks than in previous years, will be the finale of the set of celebrations in the city.
A DIY-themed activity zone will be the centrepiece of the afternoon’s entertainment, which also features live-music by Dragon and a range of food stalls and markets.
READ MORE: Newcastle’s Eve Year’s Eve entertainment
Further inland, a similar event is being held on Maitland Riverbank. Celebrations begin at 5pm and will culminate in a fireworks display at 9pm.
At Port Stephens, the d'Albora Marina at Nelson Bay will play host to the area’s main New Year’s Eve event.
Fireworks will be launched over the bay from 9pm.
Police will be out at the region’s major party hot spots and have urged revellers to consider their behaviour.
“We are not there to stifle anyone’s celebrations, our main focus is to make sure the community is safe,” Newcastle City Police District Acting Superintendent Steve Laksa said.
It is expected to be a warm night in the region and high temperatures are predicted for the first few days of 2019.
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